The USA has long been considered a safe haven for those escaping war, crime, persecution, or poverty. In 2023 we have seen war ongoing in the Ukraine, and now horrible images coming out of Israel. Carrying on its tradition of opening the US to those in need, the immigration system has opened new channels for individuals in these areas to find safe haven in the US. If you are in the Ukraine, Israel or Venezuela, there are new avenues open for you to come into the US.
When Haitians in the United States were given Temporary Protected Status (TPS) in 2011, it benefited 100,000 to 200,000 immigrants affected by the earthquake. This policy was humane and resulted in much needed relief for many people. While TPS is NOT a green card, it can be a way to eventually become a permanent resident in the United States in certain cases, and is a good option for those whose home countries are in crisis.
There is a lot of fear about crossing through the United States border these days. Many people are afraid of being detained, having their phones searched or taken, and not making it in – or out – of the US. During times like these, the best thing you can do is know your rights. Information is the best way to prepare yourself, and smooth out as many difficulties as possible BEFORE you get to the border. With a little knowledge you can save yourself anxiety, and be prepared if there are any issues. Below are some of your basic rights at the…
In the summer of 2012, following 2 years of protest and grassroots advocacy by affected youth (“Dreamers”), not to mention the prospect of his getting reelected, President Barack Obama announced an executive action of DACA on June 15, 2012. DACA pushed young people — previously attending school and working in the shadows — forward, to ensure that they could get some kind of protection under the law.
People seem to frequently put off filing Form N-400 and taking the US Naturalization Test to become a US citizen. Sometimes they are just procrastinating, thinking they have lots of time. But many people are afraid to take the test thinking that if they fail, it will result in some kind of punishment. This is not true…